Houston Astros may start playing shell games with critical players
PRESENTED BY COORS LIGHT
01 July 2022
PRESENTED BY COORS LIGHT
With Jake Odorizzi having completed two rehab starts in the minors, it appears he could join the Astros rotation as soon as July 4th, if the Astros decide to go that route. With Odorizzi's return in mind, will the Astros move to a 6-man rotation considering they only have one off-day before the All-Star break, and 19 consecutive games after the break?
Or, will Cristian Javier once again be moved to the bullpen to make room for Odorizzi and keep Verlander pitching every fifth day?
Plus, we examine how the timing of Lance McCullers' hopeful return may come too late for the Astros to trade away some key starting pitching depth before the trade deadline.
We discuss this and much more in the video above! Check it out!
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Astros pitcher Jose Urquidy made a lot of fans nervous on Friday when he exited his spring training start after just 43 pitches. Elbow pain reportedly was what cut his start short. Urquidy was then sent back to Houston for further evaluation.
Astros manager Joe Espada gave an injury update on Monday. According to MLB.com's Brian McTaggart, Urquidy is dealing with a forearm muscle strain and will likely begin the season on IL.
Houston had already been reported to have interest in signing free agent pitcher Blake Snell in recent days, according to The Athletic's Chandler Rome.
The Astros are pursuing Blake Snell, sources tell @Ken_Rosenthal and me - https://t.co/Yean488qtK
— Chandler Rome (@Chandler_Rome) March 15, 2024
But USA Today's Bob Nightengale reported over the weekend the Astros now appear to be a “long-shot” to sign him. He's looking for a 2-year, $66 million deal and with a player option for year two.
A contract like this would put the Astros over the second tax-threshold. Not to mention he turned down the Padres qualifying offer as did closer Josh Hader. Which means the Astros would have to send two draft picks to San Diego if they sign Snell.
But if owner Jim Crane decides to pass on Snell, we're looking at a starting rotation of Framber Valdez, Cristian Javier, Hunter Brown, JP France, Ronel Blanco, and possibly Brandon Bielak if they opt for a 6-man rotation.
So what should the Astros do? Throw caution to the wind and sign Snell, or hope they get their guys back healthy sooner rather than later?
It's important to keep in perspective that the Yankees have several injuries to their rotation as well. Opening Day will be a matchup between Nestor Cortes and Framber Valdez. Not Gerrit Cole vs.Justin Verlander, like we once expected.
Be sure to watch the video above as we break down the rotation, all the Astros other options, and much more!
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